Blood drives

To avoid blood shortages, it is essential that people give blood more often and more people start giving blood. Individuals who are 17 years old, or 16 with written parental permission, meet weight and height requirements and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate. Photo ID is often required.

AMERICAN

RED CROSS

The American Red Cross has been a primary supplier of blood products in the U.S. for more than 50 years. The Red Cross Blood Services Northeast Division distributes about 3,000 units of blood daily just to meet the basic needs of area patients. Call 800-733-2767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org to find a blood drive and to make an appointment. Bring your Red Cross blood donor card or valid photo ID.

Each year, Hudson Valley Blood Services distributes more than 448,000 blood products to Westchester, Hudson Valley and New York City hospitals that provide critical care for patients in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties.

Blood drives are happening in your community. Visit www.nybloodcenter.org or call 800-933-BLOOD to find a drive near you. If you're interested in organizing a blood drive, call Andrea Cefarelli at 914-784-4739.